Vishay Intertechnology Launches New Automotive-Grade Proximity Sensor with Pressure Sensing Resolution up to 20 µm

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. ( NYSE : VSH) has introduced two new fully integrated automotive-grade proximity sensors with resolutions up to 20 µm for a variety of pressure sensing applications - the VCNL3030X01 and VCNL3036X01. The sensors integrate photodiodes, amplifiers, and ADC circuits in a 4 mm x 2.36 mm, 0.75 mm thick surface mount package. The VCNL3030X01 features an onboard infrared emitter (IRED); the VCNL3036X01 can be configured with up to three external IREDs and features an onboard driver with internal logic circuits.

The devices released today are AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive, consumer electronics, smart home, industrial, office and toy products, and offer improved resolution and reduced cost compared to previous generation sensors. When used in pressure sensing applications such as vehicle steering control, notebook smart power buttons and multi-touch trackpads, as well as Internet of Things (IoT) devices and kitchen appliance touchpads, the VCNL3030X01 and VCNL3036X01 prevent false triggering and even allow users to wear gloves. The VCNL3036X01 uses an external IRED to increase product design flexibility.

The device supports the I²C bus communication interface, and the programmable interrupt function allows designers to set high and low thresholds, thereby reducing continuous communication with the microcontroller. The new proximity sensor has optional 12-bit and 16-bit outputs, uses smart cancellation technology to eliminate crosstalk, and the smart continuity design ensures accurate perception and faster response. The VCNL3030X01 emitter has a peak wavelength of 940 nm and no visible "red tail".

The VCNL3030X01 and VCNL3036X01 sensors have an IRED / LED pulse current of 200 mA and a supply voltage of 2.5V to 3.6V and an I²C bus voltage of 1.8V to 5.5V. When used in pressure sensing applications, the sensors provide the flexibility to fine-tune the displacement current over short distances. The devices are RoHS compliant and Vishay Green compliant and halogen-free.

Samples and production quantities of the new proximity sensors are available now, with lead times of six to 12 weeks for larger orders.